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Title: Enhancement of bacterial iron and sulfate respiration for in situ bioremediation of acid mine drainage sites: a case study

Journal Article · · Minerals and Metallurgical Processing
OSTI ID:20947412

The prevention of acid mine drainage (AMD) in situ is more attractive than down-gradient treatment alternatives that do not involve source control. AMD source control can be achieved by shifting the microbial activity in the sulfidic rock from pyrite oxidation to anaerobic heterotrophic activity. This is achieved by adding biodegradable organic carbon amendments to the sulfidic rock. This technique was applied to an abandoned coal mine pool in Pennsylvania. The pool had a pH of 3.0 to 3.5. Following treatment, near-neutral pH and decreased effluent heavy metal concentrations were achieved. In situ bioremediation by the enhancement of bacterial iron and sulfate reduction is a promising technology for AMD prevention.

OSTI ID:
20947412
Journal Information:
Minerals and Metallurgical Processing, Vol. 24, Issue 3; ISSN 0747-9182
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English